CAP Mock Interview

Next on the agenda for the Career Action Program was the group mock interview. I took this event very seriously, as I do all my interviews. Being a member of Alpha Kappa Psi has allowed me to develop my interviewing skills, which I am very proud of. The most important component of any interview is merely being prepared. So I prepared by reviewing common interview questions. At the Conference the students were actually given a binder with a list of interview questions. I put two and two together and decided it would be best to study those questions. I’m able to

I made sure to arrive at the event 15 minutes before it was scheduled. In my experience, it is much more advantageous to be early as opposed to just on time. Being early allowed me to gather myself, as well as get to know some of my fellow students. We are all enrolled in the same Management class at UTSA, so I politely initiated conversation that we could all relate too. I saw the time before the event as a great opportunity to network and practice my elevator speech.

This event consisted of about 50 students in all and about 10 separate tables. Each table was assigned 5 students and a table captain who was volunteering from a local company. The day before the event, each student was emailed the representative that was assigned to their table. I was assigned to table 8 with Shawn Morris from Service Uniform. At that point I researched the company my representative worked for. Like I said, preparation is the key to a successful interview. I don’t expect to work for Service Uniform, but at least I have a general idea of the company and can bring that knowledge to the interview.

I had a great interview with three of my fellow students. Mr. Morris held a very constructive interview. He allowed all of us to give each other feed back on our answers. I have actually had experience interviewing individuals, so I think I was able to pass along some useful advice. The only criticism Mr. Morris specifically gave me was the fact that I was very straight forward and professional with my answers and examples. He asked me if “I was a fun person to be around?” to which I replied “I’d like to think so.” He told me that I should relax and let my answers flow more smoothly. I completely understood his point and I actually see it as a compliment. Being a member of Alpha Kappa Psi has ingrained this professionalism in me and I am proud of that.

After the interview we were asked if we had any questions for our interviewer. None of the other students really had anything to say, but I had tons of questions. I only got to ask one. I asked,”How has your degree in marketing lead you to where you are today?” He literally said “That’s a very good question” and he continued to tell his story of working his way up through several companies. I felt a very strong connection with Mr. Morris. He helped me very much in his interview and his story was very inspiring to me. I gave him a copy of my resume and told him to expect a connection from me on LinkedIn. He recommended a book for me to read, which I’m glad to say is on the way. I learned very much in the hour and a half this event lasted and I’m looking forward to the next event: Speed Networking.